Virtual reality training with the Wii Fit™ balance system provides visual and auditory feedback for center of pressure movement and symmetric force distribution. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Wii Fit balance training on the functional recovery of visual perception, postural balance, and gait in individuals with stroke.
Materials and Methods:
Participants were randomly allocated into either the Wii Fit virtual reality training (WVRT, n = 14) group or the general balance training (GBT, n = 14) group. Both groups received conventional therapy for 90 minutes a day, five times a week for 6 weeks. In addition, the WVRT group performed virtual reality training using the Wii Fit balance system, and the GBT group performed GBT. Two training programs were performed for 30 minutes a day thrice a week for 6 weeks. Outcome measures included the motor-free visual perception test-3 (MVPT-3), Berg balance scale (BBS), timed up and go test (TUG), and 10 m walk test.
Results:
After completion of training, the WVRT group showed significant improvements of +7 (8.25) in the MVPT-3 score, +3.00 (5.25) in the BBS score, and –1.92 (6.33) s in the TUG test, with all results being significantly better than those of the GBT group (P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
The WVRT was a useful program for improving visual perception and postural balance in individuals with chronic stroke. Wii Fit balance training has previously been reported as effective for virtual reality training for motor function, but also contributes to improvement of visual perception and merits further study.
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